Congratulations on your recent victory as the new governor for the state of Illinois. On behalf of the more than 388,000 members of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), 13,740 of which reside in Illinois, we look forward to working with you on aviation issues affecting the state.

We appreciate your co-sponsorship of the National Aviation Capacity Expansion Act, H.R.3479, legislation introduced by Senator Richard Durbin and Representative William Lipinski to expand capacity at Chicago's airports and preserve Meigs Field. Regrettably, Congress left town before completing action on this issue, even though the measure passed the House.

As you know, the legislation is based on the agreement between soon to be former Governor Ryan and Mayor Daley on Chicago area aviation planning. AOPA continues to support the measure and is especially interested in keeping Meigs Field as an airport. This airport is a critical part of the infrastructure serving Chicago's business community and is beloved by U.S. pilots everywhere—we ask that you support it remaining open.